New Hampshire Rental Assistance Grants for 2025: What Renters Need to Know

Renters across New Hampshire may face financial hardship or sudden rent increases. Fortunately, rental assistance grants and support programs are available to help eligible tenants stay housed in 2025. Understanding your rights and options as a renter empowers you to secure the help you need without unnecessary stress.

Rental Assistance Grants and Programs in New Hampshire

The state offers several programs to help renters pay for housing costs. Most grant programs are managed through the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) and local community action agencies. The primary program for 2025 is the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (NHERAP), which offers grants for overdue rent, future rent, and certain utility costs.

• NH Emergency Rental Assistance Program (NHERAP): Assists tenants at risk of eviction due to unpaid rent or loss of income.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Provides subsidies to help eligible low-income renters afford safe housing.
• Local Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Services: Additional grants and case management options for those facing imminent housing loss.

Eligibility generally depends on income, current rent due, and financial hardship. Most programs require documentation, but support is available if you need help applying.

Key Forms for Rental Assistance in New Hampshire

• NHERAP Application Form – NH Emergency Rental Assistance Application
  • When & How Used: Tenants complete this form when applying for new or ongoing assistance with overdue rent, utilities, or future rental payments. Attach supporting documents such as proof of income and a copy of your lease. Submit through the NHHFA online portal or via mail.
  • Example: If you lost your job and are two months behind on rent, fill out this form to request grant funds to pay the overdue amount directly to your landlord.
• Verification of Income Form – NHHFA Income Verification Form
  • When & How Used: Use this if you need to prove your household income as part of your rental assistance application. Complete it and attach relevant pay stubs or proof of unemployment.
  • Example: You work part-time and need to show reduced earnings—submit this form with your NHERAP application.
• Section 8 Pre-Application – Housing Choice Voucher Program Pre-Application
  • When & How Used: Use this online or paper form to join the waiting list for Section 8 vouchers. The NHHFA will contact you when your application is eligible for review.
  • Example: A family seeking long-term housing support submits this pre-application to be considered for future voucher opportunities.

If you are unsure which form to use or how to apply, you can contact your local Community Action Agency for free help.

Tenancy Disputes and the Tribunal Handling Applications

In New Hampshire, residential landlord-tenant disagreements—including eviction or rental assistance appeals—are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court's District Division (Landlord-Tenant Docket).

• File complaints if you believe your landlord is not following proper eviction or rent increase procedures.
• Hearings are typically held at your local district court. Forms and filings information is available on the NH Judicial Branch forms portal.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

Your rights as a tenant are protected under the New Hampshire Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (NH RSA Chapter 540). This legislation details notice periods, eviction processes, and protections for renters applying for assistance.

How to Apply for Rental Assistance in New Hampshire

Applying for a rental assistance grant is designed to be straightforward, though documentation is critical. Here's a general overview:

• Gather income verification, lease, and documentation of hardship.
• Complete the NHERAP or relevant application form.
• Submit your application through the official NHHFA portal or by mail. Follow up and respond to any requests for additional information.
• If denied, you can appeal or seek free legal aid from state services.

What If You Face Eviction While Waiting?

If you receive an eviction notice but have applied for assistance, notify the landlord and provide proof of your application. Under RSA 540, courts may allow extra time when assistance is pending.

• Request a "stay of eviction" from the District Court if you can show active steps toward rental assistance.
• Free legal help is available from New Hampshire Legal Aid.

FAQs: Rental Assistance for New Hampshire Renters

1. Who is eligible for New Hampshire rental assistance grants in 2025?
   Most grant programs require renters to show income below a set limit and evidence of financial hardship (such as job loss or medical bills). Check exact eligibility with NHHFA or local agencies.
2. Does applying for rental assistance stop eviction?
   Submitting an assistance application does not automatically prevent eviction, but courts may grant delays if you can show a pending application. Always inform your landlord and the court immediately.
3. How are rental assistance payments made?
   Payments from NHERAP are typically sent directly to landlords or utility companies after approvals.
4. Can I appeal if my application is denied?
   Yes. You may file an appeal with NHHFA or seek advice through New Hampshire Legal Aid.
5. Where can I get help filling out rental assistance forms?
   Free support is available through local Community Action Agencies and New Hampshire Legal Aid.

Summary: Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• Rental assistance grants remain available across the state in 2025, including under NHERAP and Section 8.
• Complete official application forms and provide proof of income and hardship.
• Support and appeals are available if you face barriers or denials.

Reaching out early for help increases your chance of getting the support you need.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority – Rental Assistance Overview
• Section 8 Housing Voucher Program (NHHFA)
• New Hampshire Legal Aid – Free Legal Help
• NH Circuit Court, District Division – Landlord/Tenant Docket
• Community Action Agencies – Local Assistance
• NH Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (RSA 540)

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1. New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority: NH Rental Assistance Overview
2. New Hampshire RSA Chapter 540: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
3. NH Circuit Court: NH Circuit Court Landlord-Tenant Docket
4. NHERAP Forms: NH Housing Finance Authority Rental Assistance Applications & Forms
5. NH Legal Aid: Free Legal Help for NH Renters

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